Villarreal took an important step towards their goal of being among the greats of Europe next season. On a night full of festive atmosphere due to the celebrations of Sant Pasqual, the team led by Marcelino overcame Leganés with authority by 3-0. Ayoze Pérez, with two goals, and Nicolas Pepe, were the protagonists of a victory that keeps alive the illusion of reaching the Champions League.
Start with Rhythm and Pressure on Both Sides
From the start of the match, both teams showed intensity. Villarreal, encouraged by their fans and aware of what was at stake, came out looking for the win with determination. Leganés, on the other hand, urgently needed points to escape from the bottom of the table, and so they pressed high and tried to make the home team's ball distribution uncomfortable.
In the first minutes, there were chances for both teams. Baena had a dangerous chance for Villarreal, while Cisse responded for the visitors with a shot that went just wide. Even Raba and Neyou tested the reflexes of Luiz Júnior, who responded well between the posts.
Villarreal began to find spaces in the rival defense and it was clear that, despite Leganés' efforts, the quality of the home side would end up making the difference.
Ayoze On The Way To Victory With A Sharp Double
In the 22nd minute, the home team was rewarded. Alfonso Pedraza shot from outside the area and the ball was deflected slightly by Ayoze Pérez, just enough to change the trajectory of the goalkeeper and put the score at 1-0.
It didn't take long for the second to arrive. Just eight minutes later, Yeremy Pino played a perfect through ball to Ayoze, who powerfully slotted home at the far post. With that goal, the striker scored his second of the night and confirmed his great form.
These two goals gave Villarreal peace of mind and began to disarm Leganés, who could no longer find the answers to stop the yellow team's onslaught.
Pepe Increases Lead Before Halftime
Marcelino's team did not take their foot off the accelerator and just before going to the dressing room, the third came. In a quick move, Álex Baena saw the movement of Nicolas Pepe and put a precise pass behind the defenders. The Ivorian did not hesitate in the one-on-one and calmly defined to put the final 3-0.
The fans celebrated with enthusiasm. Everything seemed to be going perfectly: the team was winning, the goals were coming in fluently and the European dream was closer. The first half was an example of the good level Villarreal has reached in this final stretch of the championship.
Second Half With No Overshoot And Total Control
With the lead secured, Villarreal set about controlling the pace of the match in the second half. Marcelino took no more risks than necessary, knowing that maintaining the result was more important than looking for a goal.
Leganés tried to react, but lacked clarity and depth to generate real danger. Meanwhile, the home team took advantage of the spaces to counterattack. Yeremy Pino came close to scoring the fourth, but the visiting goalkeeper was attentive to save the ball.
The fans enjoyed the atmosphere, singing and recognizing the effort of their players. Each substitution was accompanied by applause, especially that of Ayoze Pérez, who left the field to a standing ovation after his two goals.
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A Victory That Keeps European Illusion Alive
The 3-0 final score not only represents three points, but a clear sign that Villarreal is in great shape as the championship draws to a close. This was their fourth consecutive win in La Liga, and with only two games left to play, the goal of qualifying for the Champions League is closer than ever.
The performance of players such as Ayoze, Pepe, Baena and Yeremy speaks of a committed team with offensive variants. In addition, the response of the fans was key in pushing the team from the start.
With this victory, Villarreal confirms that they do not intend to slacken off in the final stretch. Marcelino's work has paid off and, if they maintain this level, a return to the top European competition could be a reality in just a few days. The illusion is still intact and the Yellow Submarine is sailing firmly towards its destination.
